The Cowshed Day 4

Although catching a train today, the 11.15 still allowed for a relaxed start.  Well in time, we waited on the platform on a brisk, bright and breezy morning for the north bound train to Criccieth.  All of the route was familiar but you always get a different perspective from the train.  We have all been enjoying these train journeys this week, not only for the views but also for the very friendly and helpful guards; very much a case of letting the train take the strain.  Our route initially hugged the cliff top and as the sea had eroded the cliff top path here, thwarting our walk the day before, it made me wonder for how much longer the railway is safe.  We soon arrived at Fairbourne and the spectacular crossing of the Mawddach estuary to Barmouth.  Harlech with its imposing castle perched high above came next and then Porthmaddog with connections to the Blaenneau Ffestiniog railway and the Welsh Highland Railway north to Caernarfon.  Before long we were alighting in Criccieth with another castle built on a promontory high above the sea.  The castles reawakened memories of Beth's birthday castle treats when we spent our summers at Tuddweiliog. Having arrived, we were all ready for lunch and quickly found an excellent cafe on the main street; the bacon and lentil soup and custard tart were to die for.  After lunch we wandered round to have a look at the castle and then down to the small west beach and enjoyed a spot of beachcombing in the warm sun.  We had hoped to be able to walk around the headland to the east beach but the tide wouldn't allow it.  Instead an icecream called, after which Linda and Heather decided to hit Criccieth's fleshpots while Steve and I went for a walk along the east beach.  On both I enjoyed some close-up detail photography of groynes, rocks and seaweed and there was some pleasing contra-jour lighting for photographing the castle.  Once we had met up again there was nice time for a cup of tea before catching the train home.  The setting sun rewarded us with some dramatic views and we arrived home nicely in time for an evening meal courtesy of Helen.